Naalakkersuisoq, Peter Borg (D), has participated in the Seafood Expo North America in Boston, USA, to pave the way for increased exports.
The purpose of participating in the world's largest seafood fair is based on a strategy to reduce the vulnerability of Greenlandic exports. By strengthening ties to the North American market, the aim is to spread Greenlandic products across multiple markets.
Strategic spearhead in Boston
At the fair, Peter Borg visited Royal Greenland's stand, where he gained insight into how the company works globally and how access to international markets is a prerequisite for being able to sell Greenlandic fish and shellfish – and thus create income, jobs and economic activity at home in Greenland.
For Naalakkersuisoq Peter Borg it is about future-proofing the economy:
- It has been valuable to experience up close how international markets work and how crucial access to these markets is for Greenlandic seafood products to be sold globally. International sales and market access play an important role in supporting jobs, income and economic activity in Greenland.
- Therefore, the primary purpose of my visit has also been to increase exports to the North American market in the long term, in order to spread exports across more main markets than is the case today, states Peter Borg.
Political backing and practical logistics
To support increased exports to the USA, Peter Borg met with the US fisheries authorities, NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). The dialogue focused on creating the necessary international framework conditions to facilitate access for Greenlandic products.
The visit also included a meeting with Massachusetts' Governor, Maura Healey. Here, the agenda was characterized by shared interests in both the environment and sustainable use of marine resources.
During the conversation, Royal Greenland's sales office in Boston was highlighted as a crucial strategic link in strengthening Greenlandic market access.
To gain practical insight into local demand and logistics, the Minister also visited the Boston company Sword & Tuna.
Overall, these meetings emphasize that Greenlandic export success does not only depend on the product itself, but to a large extent requires ongoing care of diplomatic and regulatory relations in the United States.
